Fleas, Ticks, and Heartworms…Oh My!

April 24, 2017

The warm weather is upon us, and that means that man’s best friend (whether canine or feline) may be bringing home some additional buddies…fleas and ticks! Both fleas and ticks have the ability to spread disease and cause problems that can be harmful to your beloved pets. Furthermore, with the warmer weather come mosquitos, which aside from being a nuisance, can transmit heartworm disease to your dog or cat (yes, cats can get heartworm disease too)! Hence, it is important for you to help protect your fur baby from diseases spread by fleas, ticks, and mosquitos.

Fleas

Fleas have the ability to cause flea allergy dermatitis (an allergic condition that can lead to severe itching and skin infections), they can spread tapeworms (an intestinal parasite) through ingestion of the fleas as the pet grooms, they can spread severe bacterial infections (especially in cats), and they can cause anemia (low red blood cell counts).

If fleas are found on your pet, that also means that they can be in your home environment. Fleas lay thousands of eggs in their lifetime, which can be found in your carpet, bedding, in between floor boards, under radiators, etc. If a flea infestation is noted in the home, one must not only treat the pets, but also the environment. All pets in the home should be on your veterinarian’s recommended flea and tick preventative and your veterinarian can also provide you with guidance on premise sprays. All bedding (pet and human bedding) should be washed frequently. You should vacuum daily and empty the vacuum bag or canister outside once finished. Additionally, you can even get a flea collar to place in the vacuum bag or canister so that any fleas or flea larvae (baby fleas) that are swept into the vacuum have a greater chanced of being eliminated.

It can take up to 3 to 4 months (or longer) to eliminate a flea infestation from the home, so being proactive and keeping your pet on year-round flea prevention can help avoid future headaches.

Ticks

Ticks also have the ability to transmit numerous diseases to dogs and cats. Lyme disease is a very common bacterial infection in dogs in our area. It is caused by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi, which is spread by deer ticks. Transmission of the bacteria requires that the tick be attached to the dog for about 48 to 50 hours. The symptoms of Lyme disease only develop in 5 to 10% of infected dogs. Although possible, it is not as common for dogs to develop the bull’s eye rash, which is often seen in people. The symptoms of Lyme disease in dogs can include fever, lethargy, joint swelling, enlarged lymph nodes, and lameness (limping). In more serious cases, Lyme disease can also negatively affect the kidneys, leading to kidney failure. With this scenario, you may see increased thirst and urination, weight loss, vomiting, and decreased appetite. Lyme disease can be treated with specific antibiotics prescribed by a veterinarian.

Tick preventatives are imperative to help reduce the exposure of dogs to deer ticks, thereby, minimizing their exposure to the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. We also recommend that dogs be vaccinated against Lyme disease. Lyme vaccines are initially given in a series of 2 vaccines, 2 to 3 weeks apart. After the initial series, the Lyme vaccine is given annually.

Aside from Lyme disease, the other most common tick-borne bacterial diseases that dogs can get in our region are Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichiosis. Veterinarians typically perform a blood test called a 4Dx test annually in the hospital to evaluate for heartworm disease, Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and Ehrlichiosis. Like dogs with Lyme disease, those who have Anaplasmosis or Ehrlichiosis may have a fever, enlarged lymph nodes, lethargy, stiffness, and a decrease in appetite. Anaplasmosis can also lead to a depletion of platelets (clotting factors) in the body, which can results in bruising on the skin. Ehrlichiosis can lead to a decrease in the body’s white blood cell count. Hence, if your dog is diagnosed with a tick-borne disease, it is beneficial to have your veterinarian also check a routine CBC (to evaluate the red blood cells, platelets, and white blood cells in the body), a Chemistry panel (to assess kidney and liver function), and a urinalysis (to assess kidney function, especially in cases of Lyme disease).

Please be aware that cats are not exempt from tick-borne diseases. We occasionally diagnose Anaplasmosis in kitties that go outdoors.

Heartworm Disease

It is also crucial to ensure that your dogs and cats are on heartworm preventatives. Heartworm disease is caused by a potentially lethal parasite that is spread by mosquitos and can adversely affect the heart and lungs. Annually, your dog should be tested for heartworm disease and heartworm prevention should be given year-round, as heartworm preventatives not only prevent heartworm disease, but they also deworm for several intestinal parasites on a monthly basis.

Although heartworm disease is less common in our feline friends, it is important to protect them against this potentially fatal disease as well. Just one or two heartworms in the lungs or heart of a cat can be enough to cause severe lung disease or even lead to death. Currently, there is no approved treatment for heartworm disease in cats, so prevention is essential.

Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention

There are many different types of products available for dogs and cats to prevent fleas and ticks. You should always choose a veterinary-approved product after a discussion with your veterinarian to determine what the most appropriate option is for your pet as an individual.

Here at Companion Pet Hospital, we offer several different options for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention in dogs and cats. We also recommend year-round prevention given that Mother Nature is unpredictable and we sometimes have warm weather even in the middle of winter!

Below is a list of the products we carry:

Vectra 3D

This is a topical “spot-on” flea / tick preventative that we carry for dogs, which is applied to the skin along the dog’s back once monthly. It is fast-acting and not only kills fleas and ticks on contact, but it repels fleas, ticks, mosquitos, biting and sand flies, lice, and mites. Vectra 3D even remains effective after bathing and swimming.

NexGard

This is a monthly oral flea / tick preventative for dogs. This treat is easy to administer and won’t wash off like some topical products may. Also, because it’s given orally, there is no residue left on the fur or skin.

Seresto Collar

This is a veterinary-approved flea / tick breakaway collar for dogs and cats that lasts for 8 months. Pets can be bathed, or even swim with it on. It’s easy to apply, it’s odorless and non-greasy, and it kills and repels fleas and ticks.

Revolution

This is the flea and heartworm preventative that we carry for cats. It is applied topically to the skin over the back of the cat’s neck once monthly. It also deworms cats on a monthly basis for 2 intestinal parasites (roundworms and hookworms) and it treats ear mites.

Interceptor Plus

This is the monthly oral heartworm preventative that we stock for dogs. It is a tasty, easy-to-administer chewable tablet that prevents heartworm disease, and deworms dogs on a monthly basis for 4 intestinal parasites (roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms).

Heartgard Plus

This is also a monthly oral heartworm preventative that we stock for dogs. It is a tasty, east-to-administer chewable tablet that prevents heartworm disease, and deworms dogs on a monthly basis for 2 intestinal parasites (roundworms and hookworms).

As previously noted, you should consult with your veterinarian to see what is the best product for your situation. We NEVER recommend purchasing over-the-counter products (for example, Hartz, Top Spot, Sargent’s to name a few), as we have seen severe adverse responses to many of these. In general, if you ever feel that your pet is having an adverse or abnormal response to a flea and tick preventative, please contact a veterinarian immediately for guidance.

If you have any questions regarding flea, tick, and heartworm prevention for your pet, please contact us or schedule an appointment to review the best option for your family.

Fear-Free Visits Promote Better Veterinary Care

March 13, 2017

Many cat owners will attest that the mere sight of the carrier is enough to send Kitty running for cover under the nearest piece of furniture. Our four-legged friends are smart enough to connect the dots: carrier means car and car means trip to the veterinarian.

A trip to the vet does not have to be stress-inducing for your pet, however. It can actually be “fear free.”

The term “fear-free” refers to removing triggers that would typically cause pets to become stressed during their visit to the veterinarian—and it’s more than just the latest industry buzzword. The concept of fear-free visits has recently gained popularity because it allows the veterinary team to provide a better experience for both patients and clients, while improving the safety of everyone involved.

It Starts in the Home

Cats and dogs pick up on cues that they are headed to see the vet, and their nervousness begins long before they arrive at the office. To prevent anxiety, we must alter the pet’s interpretation of these cues using behavior modification training called desensitization and counter-conditioning.

Consider the cat carrier. It is possible to change the pet’s negative emotional response to the carrier by leaving it out in the house at all times (desensitization). Hiding treats or toys inside the carrier can teach her to have a new positive response to it (counterconditioning). Over time, the cat’s fear of the carrier will be eliminated, allowing her to arrive at the vet’s office in a calmer state.

This process can also be applied to dogs that are afraid of going into the car. The same association with the car and vet visit can trigger a negative response. Taking the dog to the park or simply for a ride around the block will work to desensitize him, and providing treats or positive reinforcement for climbing into the car can help counter-condition.

Keep Calm and Carry Treats

Upon arrival at the vet’s office, a calm and welcoming environment will maintain your pet’s relaxed state. The waiting room should be relatively quiet and odor-free, with separate waiting areas for dogs and cats. The use of calming pheromones also helps ease fear in dogs and cats. If your pet suffers from anxiety, minimize wait times by requesting the first appointment of the day. Exercising an energetic pet prior to the visit will help avoid restlessness and agitation during the exam.

A well-trained veterinary team will use safe and gentle handling techniques during your pet’s exam. Your pet should be examined wherever he is most comfortable. High value treats can be offered, both as a distraction and as a counter-conditioning technique, thus promoting a new, positive response to a veterinary examination.

If a pet is exceptionally stressed, a veterinarian may recommend sedation. In most cases, however, the fear-free approach can help ease a pet’s nerves during the visit.
Remember, dogs and cats can pick up on their owner’s emotional state, so it is important that pet parents also remain calm.

Ask if your veterinary team has pursued special training in the fear-free approach. Additionally, look for a certified “Cat Friendly” practice, a special accreditation given by The American Association of Feline Practitioners to animal hospitals that provide the highest feline veterinary standards and demonstrate a thorough understanding of needs unique to cats.

Using the fear-free approach will lead to happier vet visits, but be prepared to spend more time at the vet both during the exam and planning for the visit. Becoming actively involved in the fear-free process strengthens the bond between pet and owner. In the end, the purrs and tail-wags will tell you that it was all worth it!

Dr. Hope Jankunas is the owner of Companion Pet Hospital with locations in Fishkill, Beekman and Carmel. CPH is accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Association of Feline Practioners. To learn more, visit companionpethospital.com, call 845.896.4830 or follow CPH on Facebook.

The Importance of Dental Care

January 12, 2017

By Dr. Hope Jankunas

Dental health is an important aspect of your pet’s overall well being. Bacteria from an infected mouth travels through the bloodstream causing disease in vital organs such as the kidneys, liver and heart. Diseased teeth are painful, and in severe cases, affect your pet’s ability to eat.

Many pets suffer in silence

Although we humans have become desensitized to it, bad breath is not normal.It is a sign of periodontal disease and should not be ignored.

Other signs of dental disease are:

red or bleeding gums

drooling, abnormal chewing or dropping food

loss of interest in playing

pawing or rubbing at the face or mouth

shying away from you or growling when you touch the mouth or muzzle

poor grooming habits (cats)

weight loss

refusing to eat

If your pet is showing any of the signs listed above they should see the vet immediately. Cats and dogs will often hide their illness, so if they are displaying any abnormal signs you can expect that significant disease is already present.

At the early stages, there are often no signs that something is wrong.Most pets will continue to eat and play with severely diseased or damaged teeth—even with fractures and exposed roots!The recent statistics indicate that greater than 50% of dogs and cats over the age of three have dental disease. We commonly diagnose dental disease at a pet’s one-year-old check up.

Prevention is the best medicine

Maintaining good oral health means brushing your pet’s teeth daily—both dogs and cats! Understandably, this presents a challenge for pet parents if their pet won’t cooperate. Starting early by introducing puppies and kittens to daily oral care when they are young makes the task much easier.Consistency, making it fun, and rewarding your pet generously, are the keys to success at any age!

For pets that refuse daily brushing, oral health treats and prescription dental diets are available to help reduce the accumulation of plaque that leads to tartar and gum disease. Contrary to popular belief, not all bones will clean the teeth and some can even cause damage. Hard plastic bones, marrowbones, and antlers can fracture your dog’s teeth (ouch!), which may require treatment such as extraction of the tooth. If you tap your knuckles with the toy and it hurts, don’t allow your dog to chew it!You can find a list of accepted products on the Veterinary Oral Health Council website: www.vohc.org.

Invest in your pet’s dental health

There is an expense associated with dental care and pet owners can prepare by budgeting appropriately.According to the statistics, most cats and dogs will need a dental cleaning by their third birthday. Putting off the treatment only delays the inevitable—with each passing year the disease becomes more severe and the costs associated with dental care will rise.Some insurance companies will cover the cost of dental treatments, however, many do not, especially if the pet has not been receiving regular dental preventative care.

Pet parents should be wary of anyone who advertises “cheap” or “anesthesia-free” dental cleanings. General anesthesia is required for a veterinarian to perform a proper oral health evaluation and dental cleaning.A pre-anesthetic assessment, including a physical exam and blood-work, will be performed to ensure that your pet is healthy for anesthesia.A dedicated licensed veterinary technician will monitor and care for your pet during his procedure and until he is fully recovered.These safety measures are well worth the added expense.

Pets are family.Show them you care by making their dental health a priority.

Preventative Care Testing for Your Pet

March 29, 2016

by Dr. Hope Jankunas

Why is it important?

Our pets can’t tell us when they are sick and they age faster than people do. It’s in their nature to hide signs of illness and it is often too late to treat the disease by the time they show symptoms. Preventative care testing is important because it allows us to screen for early signs of disease when the problem is still treatable, which allows our pets to live longer, healthier lives.

What tests will be run?

Testing will be recommended based on your pet’s breed, age and medical history, and will include some or all of the following:

Chemistry Panel– Assesses kidney function, liver function, pancreatic function, blood sugar, hydration, electrolytes and more. Pets on chronic medications should have this test performed regularly to look for early signs of adverse side effects.

Urinalysis– Assesses kidney function and can identify infection or inflammation in the urinary tract. Pets with a history of urinary crystals or stones should have their urine monitored regularly.

Thyroid Panel(T4, Free T4, TSH)– Assesses thyroid function. This test is especially important in mature adult and senior pets because they are at risk for disease (hyperthyroidism in cats and hypothyroidism in dogs).

Fecal test– Identifies the presence of intestinal parasites, some of which can be passed from pets to people (yuck!). Most pets with infections show NO signs of disease, so it is important to check regularly even if your pet has “normal” stool. Indoor only pets are also at risk because some parasites can be spread by insects or through contaminated potting soil from houseplants.

Infectious Disease– Cats and dogs should be screened annually for the following diseases depending on risk:

Heartworm– This parasite lives in the heart and major blood vessels. It can cause severe life-threatening heart and lung disease in dogs AND cats. Treatment is risky and expensive; however, the disease is entirely preventable!

Tick-borne Disease- Ticks in the Hudson Valley carry the bacteria that cause Lyme disease and Anaplasmosis. Regular screening tests are important because some infected dogs will not show outward signs of disease. Year round tick prevention will decrease exposure to both diseases and Lyme disease can be prevented with vaccination.

FIV/Feline Leukemia- Cats can be exposed to these viral diseases through contact with other cats. They cause impaired immune function and increased risk of cancer. Most cats are asymptomatic in the early stages, therefore, early detection is important to managing the disease. Feline Leukemia can be prevented with vaccination.

How to Get Your Cat to the Vet

March 7, 2016

Adapted from Low Stress Handling, Restraint and Behavior Modification of Dogs and Cats

by Dr. Sophia Yin

Many cats won’t voluntarily go into their carrier because they associate it with a trip to the vet, which can sometimes be unpleasant. Training your cat to like the carrier can be done in a few easy steps, but requires some patience. If we can accomplish this goal, then your pet will likely have a more pleasant vet visit because she will arrive at the hospital in a happier state.

The first step is choosing the right carrier. The selection of a hard plastic carrier with a removable top is best because it allows us to keep your cat in the cozy bottom half of the carrier during the exam, which she will find more comfortable.

Wipe or spray the inside of the carrier with Feliway. Feliway contains the pheromone that cats give off from their face when they rub and mark objects. This tells them the the carrier is okay, since it’s been marked. You can pick up FREE sample size packets at our hospital prior to your visit.

Make the carrier a welcome spot by placing a soft towel or blanket inside.

Feed your cat her daily meals near her carrier. If she won’t get close to the carrier, then start with feeding her in the same room as the carrier and gradually move the bowl closer.

Once she is eating comfortably in the presence of the carrier, you can begin placing her food dish inside the carrier, so she has to put her head inside in order to eat.

Gradually move the food dish farther inside until the cat easily goes all the way in to eat her meal. **For most cats, this process can usually be accomplished in a few days**

Hide tasty treats or toys in the carrier for your cat to find throughout the day. The goal is to have your cat explore the carrier at non-scheduled feeding times.

You’ll know your cat loves her carrier once she voluntarily goes in and lays down. Once this happens, you can close the door during a meal and keep her in the carrier for short periods of time. Gradually work up to this point.

Getting the Most Out of Your Visit With the Vet

January 20, 2016

by Dr. Hope Jankunas

Bring your pet’s full vaccine history and medical record with you, or better yet, have it sent ahead of time. The medical record contains important information that your vet will want to know, especially if she is seeing your pet for the first time or if your pet has had past illnesses or ongoing issues. If you have past blood test results, we will certainly want to see those, too!

Your vet will want to know about your pet’s diet, so take note of the brand and flavor (or take a photo of the bag or can) of food that your pet eats, and try to determine out how much (in standard measuring cups) he or she consumes daily. Don’t forget treats and table scraps as well! Unfortunately, the majority of pets we see are overweight, and knowing how much of what type of food they are eating is the first step in devising a diet plan for weight loss, if needed. Diet also plays an important role in gastrointestinal issues and skin allergies.

Record the medications that your pet is receiving, or bring in the bottles, so that we can review them together. This includes pharmacy items and over the counter medications, supplements and vitamins. Make note of the brand and when your pet last received his or her flea, tick and heartworm preventative.

We most likely will want to check your pet for intestinal parasites, so please bring a fresh stool sample with you.

If you have noticed a change in the frequency or volume of your pet’s thirst or urination, please also bring a urine sample. Use a clean, disposable container, but don’t disinfect with hydrogen peroxide or bleach as these chemicals can falsely alter the results of the test.

If your pet is not going to be brought in by the primary caregiver, make sure that all parties involved discuss any concerns that may exist ahead of time. Feel free to send a note in with your pet or write us an email. You can also visit our website (www.companionpethospital.com) and fill out the drop-off exam form.

We try to make the experience as positive as possible, which means we like to give lots of treats during the visit! If your pet has a special diet or is finicky about the treats he or she will eat, please bring something yummy from home. To help make your pet more receptive to treats, don’t feed him or her prior to the exam.

For safety, please make sure that your pet is leashed or in a carrier before you enter the waiting room.

If your cat is anxious about getting into the carrier, please read the “How to Get Your Cat to the Vet” handout. If your dog is anxious about car rides or coming to the vet, please read the “Preparing Your Dog to See the Vet” handout.

If your pet suffers from motion sickness on car rides, talk to your vet prior to the visit about steps that can be taken to avoid nausea that may contribute to anxiety about visiting the vet.

DENTAL CARE FAQs

January 7, 2016

by Dr. Hope Jankunas

Q: Why does my pet need to get his/her teeth cleaned by the veterinarian?

A: Bacteria associated with tartar can invade the area under the gum line and cause tooth and bone decay. This causes the tooth to become loose and painful, making it difficult to eat. This bacteria can also travel through the blood to vital organs such as the liver, kidney and heart and cause illness. It is also responsible for your pet’s bad breath.

Q: How often do I need to have my pet’s teeth professionally cleaned?

A: The time between dental procedures varies between pets based on their breed, age, lifestyle and whether or not they receive daily oral care (brushing the teeth, applying Oravet, etc.). It is not uncommon for a pet to need the teeth cleaned by the time they are 3-5 years old, and some pets may require it even earlier. Many pets require annual dental cleanings, and some require it as often as every 6 months.

Q: Why do you have to anesthetize my pet for the dental cleaning?

A: Anesthesia is used to immobilize the pet for a thorough examination and cleaning, to provide pain management, and to allow us to intubate (place a breathing tube in the airway) to prevent fluid, bacteria and debris from entering your pet’s respiratory tract. Be aware of businesses that advertise “anesthesia-free dental cleanings,” because if they are not anesthetizing and intubating your pet they are not doing the procedure properly and are putting your pet’s health at risk!

Q: Is anesthesia safe?

A: A physical examination and blood analysis will be performed prior to anesthesia to ensure that your pet is at optimal health for anesthesia. A Blood Chemistry test allows us to investigate vital organ function (such as kidney and liver) and a Packed Red Blood Cell Volume test checks the oxygen carrying capability. In pets that are older or have chronic diseases (such as a heart murmur, Diabetes, thyroid disease, kidney disease, etc.), your veterinarian may recommend more in depth blood tests or X-rays to make sure your pet is healthy enough for anesthesia. We will never put your pet under anesthesia if we feel that it is unsafe to do so.

Your pet will have an IV catheter, which allows direct access to the vein for administering fluids (that help maintain good blood pressure during anesthesia), and emergency drugs if needed.

We use monitoring equipment, such an ECG and pulse-oximeter, to monitor the heart rate and rhythm and oxygen content of the blood. This is the same equipment used in a human hospital!

Fight Pet Obesity

October 14, 2015

Has your pet been looking and feeling a little heavier lately? Being a few pounds overweight for a human isn’t usually a reason for concern, but for a dog or cat, those few pounds can quickly lead to obesity when you consider the ideal weight of these pets. Over 50% of all pet cats and dogs are overweight, but sadly, many owners aren’t even aware that their pets are overweight.

Obesity can cause a number of health problems for pets, including osteoarthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and some cancers. That’s why it’s so important to keep your companion’s weight under control. Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill wants to help dogs and cats reach and maintain a healthy weight, which is why we’re pleased to host our Munchie’s Fit Club challenge!

What Is Munchie’s Fit Club?

Inspired by the popular “The Biggest Loser” weight loss show, Munchie’s Fit Club is a weight loss challenge for pets that includes regular weigh-ins and goals. For the month of October, all weight assessments are complimentary. We’re also including free fitness exams with every physical exam this month only.

To enter the challenge, you must purchase a Royan Canin prescription weight loss diet food from our hospital. These foods come with a 100% palatability guarantee, so if your pet refused to eat it, you can return it for a full refund. The last date to enter is October 31. The contest will then run 10 weeks after that and will include regular weigh-ins to check your pet’s progress.

The pet that loses the highest percentage of body weight at the end of the 10-week period will win the challenge and receive a three-month supply of prescription diet foods as well as a $100 gift card to Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill. The winner will be announced on January 11, 2016.

How to Enter the Challenge

To enter your pet into Munchie’s Fit Club Challenge at Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill, schedule an appointment for your pet’s first weigh-in by calling (845) 896-4830. We look forward to seeing you and your pet and helping your fur baby reach a healthier weight!

How Can I Manage My Pet’s Pain?

July 20, 2015

The number one question we get asked at Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill is “How can I manage my pet’s pain?” Painful symptoms are a huge concern for pet owners whose pets have been diagnosed with a chronic condition or are in their senior years and experiencing such things as arthritis and joint pain. We have made it our priority to provide comfort care to pets who experience ongoing pain, introducing integrative medicine techniques into our practice.

Integrative Medicine for Pain Management in Fishkill, NY

The integrative medicine approaches that we are currently offering at the Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill in Fishkill, NY include veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine for your pet. Often these two treatments options will work in conjunction with each other as well as with traditional veterinary medical approaches.

Veterinary Acupuncture is an eastern treatment option which involves the strategic placement of tiny needles in the skin. These needle points stimulate nerve endings, causing relief in areas of the body that were experiencing pain. Chinese herbal medicine for your pet is an opportunity to take a non-medical approach to treatment, relieving pain without the need for prescription drugs.

These treatment options may not be for all pets, and they will often not replace a certain amount of medical treatment, but they can be beneficial for many animals. We recommend a consultation with our veterinarians to determine whether your pet could be a candidate for alternative therapy!

Laser Therapy forPain Management in Fishkill, NY

Companion Pet Hospital uses Companion Laser Therapy as another pain management option for our patients and is commonly used for rehabilitative and healing purposes. This non-invasive, drug-free therapy option is used to treat a variety of conditions and can be performed in conjunction with existing treatment protocols, including acupuncture. Many pets experience relief and/or improvement within just a few hours, but results vary, depending on the condition being treated.

In addition to general pain relief, we use laser therapy to treat arthritis and other joint issues, skin problems, wounds, and ear infections. Give us a call to learn more about laser therapy and determine if your pet can benefit from a session.

Pet Nutrition

May 18, 2015

Pet Obesity is Big!

The veterinary team at the Companion Pet Hospital of Fishkill is raising awareness about the dangers of the epidemic of pet obesity! We believe that educating pet owners on the importance of proper veterinary care is a critical aspect of ensuring that your pet’s weight is managed for their health. We recommend weight management consultations for all pets that are overweight or suspected of being overweight. A weight management consultation includes:

Assessment of your pet’s weight

Consideration of the medications and supplements they take

Consideration of their exercise habits

Examination of their diet and serving sizes

Health status considerations

Lifestyle assessment

We will consider your pet’s needs and circumstances when determining the best course of action for their weight management. A pet that is overweight is at a great risk of a number of health conditions, including heart and kidney issues, as well as joint and mobility problems. Obesity is an epidemic that is affecting nearly half of the nation’s pets, and just as in humans, it can be deadly over time! For pets, even just a few pounds of extra weight can be dangerous for their health.

Schedule Your Pet’s Weight Management Consultation in Fishkill

If you suspect that your pet is overweight or if our veterinarians have told you that your pet is overweight, we would be happy to talk with you about their weight management. For health reasons, weight should be managed promptly. Please contact us today to schedule their check-up!